Will years to come, starting with 2021, and beyond look the same for finding a new career trajectory? I personally do not think so. That means that 2021 may be the year to step out of your industry comfort zone or take the leap into a career pivot—especially if you want to increase your chances of landing a job more quickly or if you were already considering a career change.

As a job searcher looking to advance your career or make a change here is how to adapt.

  • Keep up with trends by keeping relevant with industry news sites and reach out to your network- particularly niche recruiters in your space such as life science recruiters- and ask questions.
  • Stay in touch with your network because in today’s times professional connections are the most important way to find your next opportunity. If you have ignored networking, there is no better time than now to start.
  • Take inventory of your transferrable skills, develop a compelling message about what they are based on your experiences and think about how you may be able to enhance them.
  • Apply for positions you have not considered in the past or consider changing industries where you can use your acquired skills to make a difference.

I like getting to know people and hearing their stories, which often leads to deeper connections and opportunities for mentorship. The best guidance I have received early in my first career (I’m on #2 now):

  1. Not all advice is right—you need to pick out the pieces that make sense for you, and
  2. It’s good to be uncomfortable—it means you are learning
  3. Be thoughtful about feedback you know to be genuine because others see your blind spots better than you; others may see a talent in you that you don’t even realize you have.

Be intentional, not opportunistic. Use a framework to map out your ultimate destination and play the movie backward from there to understand various scenarios and to help direct what you do today for tomorrow.

-Written by Michele Baxley: Life Sciences Recruiter and Practice Lead